Motor Mile Speedway will return for 10 races in 2019

The Virginia short track will soon reveal a 2019 calendar of events that will feature 10 events for Late Model Stocks, Limited Sportsman, Super Street, MOD-4 and UCARS. The track has also reached out to NASCAR about a sanctioning agreement for the 2019 season.

Track owner David Hagan held a series of closed-door meeting with racing teams to determine the optimal way to proceed with a revival.

“I have been impressed by the persistence of the racers,” Hagan said in a release. “While the concerns that led to the suspension of our racing program in 2018 were justified, assurances of racer and fan support have persuaded me to move forward for 2019.

“Many changes will be coming. For instance, a soft-sided, six-pack-sized cooler will be allowed for race events. We will be implementing a no-smoking policy, although the speedway and dragway will each have one designated smoking area. Ultimately, our mission in 2019 will be to improve the family experience.”

The track is also expected to have entertainment and expo events, according to general manager Michelle Vaught.

“This announcement is the result of a lot of behind-the-scenes work involving track management and members of the local racing community,” Vaught said. “There has been an outpouring of interest in reviving our racing program, and we have been receptive to the opinions of those who are determined to make racing successful.

“With the continued support of our fans, teams and sponsors, 2019 will mark the start of a new era of motorsports entertainment in our region.”

Third-generation racer Bryan Reedy of Daleville, Va., has served as a representative of the Late Model division during racing program deliberations.

“I think the meetings have been good. Having David involved has been a huge thing. Having him back at the forefront is a huge positive for the race track and the racers,” says Reedy. “I think this [announcement] is exciting.”

Key members of Motor Mile Speedway’s respected officiating staff will be returning in 2019. Along with competitor-proposed rulebook adjustments, modifications to track operations and procedures will be implemented, all in an effort to ensure the long-term viability of the racing program.

“By every measure, our 2018 schedule has been a success. Have we missed racing? No question. Are we excited to bring racing back? Absolutely,” Vaught says. “We can’t wait for the green flag to fall next season.”

Matt Weaver is the owner and founder of Short Track Scene. Weaver grew up in the sport, having raced himself before becoming a reporter in college at the University of South Alabama. He is also the associate motorsports editor of Autoweek Magazine and its website, which allows him to cover the highest levels of the sport.